Paphos: French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the crew of the aircraft carrier 'Charles de Gaulle' during his visit to the Mediterranean Sea, emphasizing the vessel's mission to protect French citizens, allies, and friends in the region. The aircraft carrier's deployment is aimed at safeguarding approximately 400,000 French nationals, as well as supporting allies such as Cyprus, with whom France has defense agreements.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Macron highlighted the importance of ensuring freedom of navigation and the unimpeded transport of oil and natural gas, which are crucial to French interests. He reiterated that France is not participating in the ongoing conflict but is prepared to assist in potential repatriation operations for French citizens from the Middle East.
Macron also discussed the strategic significance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz, indicating that several European and Asian nations, including India, are willing to join relevant operations when conditions allow. This demonstrates a broader international interest in maintaining navigational freedom in key maritime routes.
During his visit to Cyprus, Macron, accompanied by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, met with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides. The leaders convened at the "Andreas Papandreou" air base in Paphos, sending a unified message of solidarity and cooperation in response to regional tensions.
The backdrop to these developments is an attack by a Shahed-type drone on March 2, 2026, which targeted military facilities at the British Bases in Akrotiri, Cyprus. This incident, linked to the turmoil following US-Israeli actions against Iran, resulted in minor damage but heightened security measures. In response, countries like Greece, France, and the UK have bolstered their military presence around Cyprus, asserting their commitment to regional stability. Nicosia has consistently stated its non-involvement in the broader Middle Eastern conflict.